AUD to offer $7.6m in scholarships

Dubai, June 19, 2012

The American University in Dubai (AUD) said its board has approved the 2012-13 budget along with its new programs which include scholarships worth Dh28 million ($7.6 million) to outstanding students and those facing financial difficulties.

The meeting was held recently in Dubai to discuss the future plans and expansions of the university, to approve budgets, and oversee academic progress.

The agenda included the approval of the 2012-2013 strategic plan, new programs and future expansions.

Dr Stephen Franklin, chairman of the AUD Governing Board said, “There is little doubt that AUD is well on its way to becoming a premiere institution of higher learning in the Gulf. Its history of growth provides strong testimony to the viability of its positioning.”

Integral to this positioning are AUD’s American accreditation and academic standards, which are exceptional in the Gulf region. AUD – although working within an American framework – has developed a character of its own. This is in large part inspired by its sensitivity to the needs of the students from this region,” he remarked.

On the scholarship budget, Dr Franklin said, “As for providing Dh28 million in scholarships for this academic year, it is a testimony to AUD’s commitment to cultivate and reward excellence by enrolling top high school students from around the world.”

"The admissions department at AUD is currently welcoming requests for H.H. Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Scholarship for Admissions, and The Mohammed Bin Rashid School for Communication Scholarship Program," he added.

Elias Bou Saab, the executive VP, said the administration is keen on providing annual grants to eligible candidates after reviewing their applications, and noted that priority will be given to early applicants. The deadline for application is July 15.

He pointed out that veteran students who obtained scholarships have proven their success in studying and at work after graduation.

They currently hold high managerial positions in various governmental and private corporations making AUD very proud of its Ambassadors, said a proud Bou Saab.

The meeting later elected new members to the board. These include Dr Habib Al Mulla, founder of Habib Al Mulla & Co. Advocates & Legal Consultants, Dubai; Justin Cooper, senior advisor to President William J. Clinton; Dr Lance de Masi, the president of AUD; Dr Steve Franklin, the chief of sales and new business development, Wells Real Estate Funds; Joseph Ghossoub, CEO of Menacom; World President, International Advertising Association and Dr Ghassan Salameh, former Minister of Culture, Lebanon.-TradeArabia News Service